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Nitrous Sedation

Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a simple and safe sedative agent that is inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you feel calm and relaxed. It is combined with oxygen to intensify its effect. Patients are usually able to drive themselves home after the procedure without any side effects or complications.

Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that has been used for years to help patients feel at ease during dental procedures. It was first used in dentistry in the 1800s and continues to be a favorite among dentists today. It has a calming effect that helps patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their appointment. Many even report forgetting about the procedure altogether! The effects wear off quickly and you will be able to drive home afterwards on your own. You may experience some grogginess for a few hours after your procedure, but most patients do not experience any lingering drowsiness afterward.

How is Nitrous Sedation administered?

With nitrous oxide, you will inhale the gas through a mask that is worn over the nose. The gas is mixed with oxygen to create a vasodilator effect that helps to keep your blood pressure up and reduce anxiety or discomfort. The gas will be adjusted according to your feelings and clinical needs. Nitrous oxide sedation is often used for patients who fear needles and other invasive dental procedures, as well as during longer procedures when patients are at risk for falling asleep.

Nitrous oxide is the most common form of sedation used in dentistry and is administered during a treatment visit with no preparation required outside of the appointment itself. Prior to the appointment, patients who suffer from certain health conditions may not be ideal candidates for this sedative technique. Your dentist will discuss your medical history with you to determine if nitrous oxide is the best form of sedation for you.

Conditions that Nitrous Sedation can treat 

Nitrous can help patients who suffer from mild-to-moderate dental anxiety or discomfort while undergoing dental procedures. Using sedatives helps relax you during a procedure, because you may not feel any pain as your dentist works on your smile. If you suffer from bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, you may benefit from nitrous oxide as well. Nitrous can also help you if you are uncomfortable during the placement of an implant! For some individuals, the use of nitrous oxide can also help them sleep through their visit and forget they are in a dentist’s office. Dental anxiety is very common among adults and children alike. Nitrous helps you relax and makes your treatment more tolerable.

Not all dentists offer the use of nitrous oxide; however, some do. Ask your family dentist if nitrous oxide is offered at their office and how it can help you during your next appointment. Sedation dentistry is commonly used for many procedures including fillings, root canals, crowns, bridges, extractions, periodontal treatments, dental implant placement, and more.

Advantages of Nitrous Sedation

Nitrous oxide is a great solution for patients who are fearful of their procedure, or who have a low pain threshold. With this method, patients will not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Also, they will remain conscious and able to communicate with the dentist throughout the treatment process, making it a good option for many patients.

Additionally, nitrous oxide is safe to use on most patients. As long as the patient does not have an allergy to nitrous oxide, he or she can safely receive the sedative during their procedure. It is also eliminated from the body quickly after the procedure is complete, so patients are able to get back to their daily routines shortly after visiting us for their dental treatments.

Nitrous can help improve your overall experience at the dental office. Make an appointment with Legacy Dental Clinic to find out if this sedation option may be right for you. Call us at (825) 467-8888.